2017 Rausch Auslese Auction 03 18
Estimated value
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Tasting notes
This auctioned Auslese reflects a significant portion of botrytized, shriveled berries and was picked out during the last week of harvest. Quince, gooseberry and apricot preserves are mingled with glazed pineapple and candied grapefruit peel, making for an impression on both nose and palate that is at once rich, tart and piquant. Enormously high (43 grams) dry extract translates into an implacable sense of density, which is accompanied by an almost metallic sheen and a degree of brightness that may find you searching for the gustatory equivalent of sunglasses. The rapier, energetic finish left my salivary glands pumping, my gums and tongue tingling, and the sum of my mouth parts generally feeling wrung out. This formidable elixir is likely to be a long keeper, and I hope it will eventually deliver greater genuine pleasure.
Critic scores
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Tamlyn Currin, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Amazing that such a giant of a man makes wines like these. Carved from sugared peaches and rose petals, lime bones and delicate honeyed sweetness. A fine, almost earthy spiciness runs like filigree lace over the top and through the wine. Embryonic, needs substantially more time. (TC)
RS 82 g/l but much higher dry extract than the Spätlese – different parcels. More spice and less mushroom than on the Spätlese but quite similar. On the palate, definitely more concentration and intensity and a sweet/sour finish. Needs more time. Mushroomy long finish. (JH)
Extremely clean in spite of the creaminess and a delicate touch of sweetness. Great structure and balance. The intensity is only showing its hand at the bold and breathtaking finish. Drink or hold.